Latest news and stories about blood donation in Portugal for expats and residents.
In eight years, the number of donors has fallen by 10,000. New rules for donors aim to encourage giving.
Blood donors have been registering an annual decrease. IPO Porto is appealing for blood donations with the campaign 'You are someone's type', which begins this Friday and will run for one year.
In this news bulletin, the latest updates on the conflict in the Middle East. Also, Cavaco's criticisms of Chega and the PS, and the blood donation initiative at the IPO in Porto.
In 2025, 2,427 patients were transfused at the IPO in Porto, totaling 7,294 red blood cell transfusions and 4,834 platelet transfusions.
Home News Portugal calls for blood donations Portugal calls for blood donations A concerning and persistent decline in blood donor numbers—up to 5% per year—has been recorded at the Portuguese Institute of Oncology ( IPO) in Porto, according to the head of the Immuno-hemotherapy Department.
The organisation also expresses its condolences to the families and friends of the victims of Storm Kristin.
The Portuguese Federation of Voluntary Blood Donors (Fepobades) today welcomed the raising of the upper age limit for blood donors to 70, following a meeting with the health authorities, saying it could slow the decline seen in recent years.
The Portuguese Federation of Voluntary Blood Donors says it is common for many existing rules not to be enforced, warning that it will be vigilant to ensure the new rule 'is actually complied with'.
Donors will start to receive text messages (SMS) and emails with the results of their tests.
At 15:00, the President of the Portuguese Institute of Blood argued for changes to the criteria and processes used to select blood donors.
The aim is to bolster blood supplies and help save lives.
Some blood types are in low supply. Hospitals need 1,100 units of blood every day.
